PEOPLE riding e-scooters and e-bikes illegally in Wiltshire could have their property seized as part of a new crackdown.

Wiltshire Police launched Operation Jetsom on Friday (June 27) – a two-phase operation designed to clamp down on the illegal use of these battery-operated vehicles across the county and to take them off the streets.

Under the law, e-bikes and e-scooters can only legally be ridden on private land, as they are classified as motor vehicles and are subject to the same rules, including the need for insurance and licensing.

Op Jetsom will run for the next five weeks and will see officers stopping users to explain the law as well as an awareness campaign on social media and school visits.

Any e-bike/e-scooter user stopped by officers and who has been involved in another crime, such as speeding, antisocial behaviour or acts of violence, will see their property seized.

From August 1, anyone who is stopped riding an illegal e-scooter or modified, high-powered e-bikes can expect to have it seized and destroyed.

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This operation comes after the force said it had received “numerous complaints” about them being ridden dangerously and as a means for associated criminality and antisocial behaviour.

Assistant chief constable Ian Saunders said: “We are aware of the considerable public concern around high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters, which are often ridden dangerously on our roads and pavements.

“We’re also aware of the link between e-bikes, which have often been illegally modified and can reach speeds of more than 40mph, and youth violence across the country.

“It is something we have seen in Swindon and the wider county, where they are used to commit serious crimes while also putting the riders of these vehicles and other road users at risk of serious injury. We are determined to clear our streets of them to protect the public.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “We’re seeing a growing number of incidents where e-bikes and e-scooters are being used irresponsibly or even for criminal activity, and that cannot be ignored.”

He added: “This targeted response is about sending a clear message: if you’re using these vehicles illegally or dangerously, you will be stopped, your vehicle may be seized, and you could face prosecution.

“At the same time, we recognise that many people simply aren’t aware of the laws around e-bikes and e-scooters. That’s why education is a key part of our approach—helping people understand the legal requirements and the potential risks involved.

“Our priority is public safety and whilst we want to support the responsible use of these vehicles, we won’t tolerate behaviour that puts others at risk or contributes towards crime on our streets.”

For more information on the laws surrounding e-bikes and e-scooters, visit the Wiltshire Police website.

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